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I use a brad nailer that handles nails from 5/8" up to 1-1/4". It's electric so you don't have to buy the air compressor. It's $50 to $60. I use the 1-1/4" w/ glue for frames, and the 5/8" for the wedges.

I shoot 2.5" 15 guage finish nails in mine. I have a 15 guage stapler, but I like the longer length on the finish nails and it doesn't crush the grain like a staple does. I shoot them at an angle which gives them much greater holding power shooting into endgrain. Angle each one the opposite direction and it pretty effectively locks the joint.

Dadburnit Bizz you just know how to ruin a guys day.:mad: I could have had $5.00 extra to go drink with Bullseye and 8 other guys Who are willing to risk a brutal hang over to demonstrate to the rest of america how are tax system works.

I've been using 1.5" narrow crown staples for frames, and 18 gauge 1.5" brads for the supers (glued in the finger joints). The only reason I use 18 gauge is because that's the size my air nailer/stapler uses. I'm sure some will say that 18 gauge is too small.

Re: staple gun for supers

I'm with Ross. Just bought a Campbell Hausfield 2-1/2" nail gun at a pawn shop for $17.00. It really does less damage to the wood in the finger joint area. I'm impressed. It also shoots shorter nails (1-3/4") for frames. Previously had a Hitachi, never missed a beat. Loved it.

Re: staple gun for supers

Tightbond III glue in conjunction with a "Max" brand pneumatic nailer shooting 3" stainless steel ringshank nails. (I used to use a 3lb sledge hammer to drive similar nails into the boxes). I use the overflow glue to seal the end grain. I also use BetterBee boxes, which are made from 7/8" stock, rather than the standard 3/4" stock. My assembled boxes are rock solid.

I have a few boxes which are the standard 3/4" stock held together with just nails. These 3/4"/nails-only boxes are noticeable less rigid than my glued BetterBee boxes.

I don't paint or otherwise seal my boxes, hence I use the SS nails to avoid rust stains caused by regular nails. Purely an aesthetic consideration.